THE airline will now fly direct from the Scottish capital to Doha five times per week after their first flight landed in Edinburgh yesterday.

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THE first direct flight from Doha to Edinburgh touched down in Scotland yesterday.

Qatar Airways will now fly direct from the Scottish capital to Doha five times per week, fully opening Scotland up to Asia, Australia and China.

A special event at Edinburgh Airport yesterday saw representatives of Team Scotland, joined by Humza Yousaf MSP, Scottish Minister for External Affairs and International Development, gather to welcome Qatar Airways and their historic flight.

The Middle Eastern carrier will fly Scotland’s first scheduled 787 Dreamliner and will offer connectivity to over 120 worldwide destinations.

Chief Commercial Officer for Qatar Airways, Marwan Koleilat, flew into Edinburgh on the first flight and was given a traditional Scottish welcome, complete with a piper and wet weather.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: "This truly is a historic day, not just for our airport, but for the city of Edinburgh and for Scotland.

"Today’s inaugural flight to Doha marks the first direct link from Edinburgh to the Middle East and means Scotland’s capital is finally connected with Asia, Australia and China. We’re absolutely delighted to celebrate this occasion with our city partners and the Scottish Government, whose hard work has helped us reach this milestone.

"A direct link to Doha will not only enhance trade and culture links but will truly reaffirm Edinburgh Airport as where Scotland meets the world."

Minister for External Affairs and International Development Humza Yousaf added: "Scotland and Qatar are both strong oil and gas producing countries and the relationship between our two countries has continued to strengthen over recent years.

"This service will help build on this important link and promote Scotland as a great place to do business. By removing the need for extra connecting flights, it will also make Scotland a more attractive destination for tourists.

"2014 is an exciting time for Scotland and we look forward to welcoming friends from around the world for our exciting programme of events that includes the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and a second Year of Homecoming."